The way we design spaces holds the potential to significantly enhance health and well-being. Some elements, like abundant natural light, good air quality, and temperature control, are more straightforward. Others are subtler.
In this article, we explore how our sense of smell can be harnessed to foster calm and wellness in public and private spaces.
How this began
In 2019, Integration began collaborating with Los Angeles-based botanical scent design studio L’Oeil du Vert to infuse their site-specific fragrance work into multi-level buildings in both the UK and US.
Studio founder and botanical scent designer, Haley Alexander van Oosten, first approached Integration to consult on a high-end fashion retail project in Mayfair, London. We then continued to work together exploring scent vaporisation techniques specific to their essential oil-based scent compositions.
How natural scents can influence us
Unlike synthetic fragrances which often contain phthalates and other endocrine-disrupting additives, natural botanical fragrances can positively impact our well-being. They work by engaging both the olfactory system and bloodstream to influence the brain and emotions.
“Throughout history,” Haley explains, “aromatic plant materials, such as incense, have been used in religious and spiritual practices to create a serene atmosphere. Modern research has shed light on the science behind this.
For instance, sandalwood contains alpha-Santalol, a compound known to reduce anxiety and promote calmness. Similarly, Frankincense releases Incensole acetate, which activates TRPV3 ion channels in the brain, enhancing mood and providing uplifting effects. By infusing spaces with vaporised botanical scents, we can harness these natural benefits without the need for smoke.”
What is involved in the installation?
Beyond crafting the scent, understanding the desired overall scent experience is key. Factors such as how people move through the space and occupancy patterns at varying times of day are taken into consideration. With these factors in mind we determine the optimal locations for vaporising units within the fresh air duct system.
The units are relatively small and easy to integrate as shown in the image below. While the installation can present practical challenges, these are typically resolved with a solid understanding of fluid dynamics and how vapors change phase, mix and flow with the air.
What the clients say
One of our projects involved scenting a historic neo-Renaissance mansion during its restoration into a four-level contemporary art gallery in New York (image below)
“For this project,” Haley notes, “L’Oeil du Vert created three custom scents to be installed like a tiered invisible garden pathway connecting the exhibition spaces. It took several adjustments to achieve the subtle effect of the outdoor freshness of Nature we were aiming for. Three years later the client still comments how much she values the positive feeling the scents are bringing to the gallery."
If you would like more information on how to use scenting to elicit a desired emotion in your space get in touch: hello@integration.com
